FAREWELL AND BEST WISHES GRAHAM LOCH AND MELISSA WARE

The ATA SA Branch would like to extend our very best wishes to long serving Chairman of Stewards Graham Loch, who is taking up an exciting role with the Macau Jockey Club. Graham has given 21 years of service to the SA Thoroughbred Racing Industry, the last 11 of those as Chairman of Stewards.

Also farewelling Adelaide is Melissa Ware, Editor of The Races magazine, SABOIS Co-ordinator and Raceday Judge. Melissa will be moving to Melbourne where she will take up her new role with the Melbourne Racing Club.

On Thursday 14th February 2013, local trainers joined the staff of TRSA Ltd to farewell both Graham & Melissa. We thank TRSA Ltd for the opportunity to say goodbye to Graham & Melissa and hope that they both enjoy the new chapter in their careers.

LIMITED ACCESS TO FACILITIES AT STRATHALBYN RACECOURSE

The SA branch is concerned about the situation which has developed at the Strathalbyn racecourse.

Trainers have very limited access to the facilities for working their horses and are finding it difficult to properly prepare them for racing. We watch with anticipation hoping the Strathalbyn Trainers Association, the club and TRSA Ltd can resolve the situation as quickly as possible. I have spoken to several Strathalbyn based trainers and hopes are high that things will improve sooner rather than later.

NON-CLAIMING RACES

The SAJA is concerned at the present policy of non claiming races. They are asking TRSA Ltd to re-introduce at least one non claiming race at every Saturday metro meeting.

They believe every city race over $50k should be non claiming and every provincial or country race be reviewed with country cups valued at $40k receiving a no claims status. The SAJA believe this would strengthen senior rider depth and benefit apprentice jockeys by allowing them to prove themselves against the senior riders.

The SAJA is also of the opinion turnover on such events would increase due to punters being able to bet on horses with more experienced riders engaged.

No doubt our association will be considering this proposal in the coming weeks.